The Pretty One

In the 2013 film The Pretty One, directed by Jenée LaMarque, we meet Laurel, a shy and unassuming woman who has always lived in the shadow of her glamorous twin sister, Audrey. When tragedy strikes and Audrey dies in a car accident, Laurel finds herself grappling with grief and an unexpected opportunity. With a mix of desperation and longing, she decides to assume her sister's identity, immersing herself in the life she has envied for so long. As she navigates this new persona, the film explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the complexities of sibling relationships, all wrapped in a blend of comedy and drama that keeps the audience engaged.

As Laurel takes on Audrey’s vibrant life, she encounters a tangled web of friendships, romantic interests, and the pressures of maintaining her sister's image. The film brilliantly contrasts Laurel's initial feelings of liberation with the burdens of her deception, prompting viewers to question the cost of living someone else's dream. With strong performances from the cast, particularly Zoe Kazan as Laurel, The Pretty One invites audiences to reflect on the nature of beauty and individuality. Ultimately, it’s a poignant story about finding one's true self, even when faced with overwhelming loss, making it a compelling watch for those who appreciate narratives about personal growth and the intricacies of familial love.